FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 17, 2023
Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Jackson County
Jackson County, Ore.—West Nile virus (WNv) has been detected in three mosquito samples collected on August 15, 2023 in east and south Medford as well as Phoenix. There have been four total WNv detections in Jackson County this year. In 2022, mosquitoes tested positive for WNv on eight occasions, each in August or September when WNv tends to be most prevalent in our area. Mosquitoes are collected by the Jackson County Vector Control District (JCVCD) as part of a routine surveillance program and tested using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Residents are advised to take basic precautions against mosquitoes since WNv is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People should consult their health care providers if they experience any flu-like symptoms, especially in people over 50 years of age with underlying conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
The virus also affects wildlife and domesticated farm animals. Horse owners should get their horses vaccinated for WNv and horses with neurologic disease should be examined by a veterinarian. West Nile testing is available at Oregon State University.
The Jackson County Vector Control District suggests the following steps to protect against mosquitoes:
- Eliminate or treat any sources of standing water around your home.
- Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon/eucalyptus, or Picardin. Always follow the label directions.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.
- Ensure that screen doors and windows are in good condition and fit tightly.
Additional information about West Nile virus:
Oregon Health Authority website: http://public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/DiseasesAZ/WestNileVirus/Pages/survey.aspx
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/ index.htm